Etosha Aoba Lodge

The entrance to Etosha Aoba is about 13km from the B1, and 10km east of Etosha's Von Lindequist entrance gate (22km from Namutoni), on the C38. The lodge itself is a further 10km of smooth but twisting road from its turning, through a dense area of woodlands dominated by tamboti, terminalia and leadwood trees.

Etosha Aoba's thatched bungalows are beautiful. A large patio window, which interchanges with a gauze screen, opens on to a small veranda with a couple of chairs. Inside are twin beds covered by a mosquito net, and above them a ceiling fan beneath the thatch. There's a tiled bathroom with toilet and shower – all spotless.

The main lodge consists of a large thatched area with bar and tables, for breakfast and dinner, and a small office which doubles as a curio shop. Beside that is a large pool surrounded by sun-loungers for the foolhardy. Arrangements can be made for those without vehicles to visit Etosha with Etosha Game Viewers open-sided vehicles, but most guests drive themselves from here.

Etosha Aoba lacks the camaraderie of an all-inclusive lodge and is about 30 minutes' drive from the park's gate. However, it is comfortable, well designed and good value. It makes an excellent base for driving around eastern Etosha.